The persistent smell of smoke after a fireplace or from using cigarettes or candlesticks can be an annoying reminder. This odor can be annoying and cause health issues if not addressed. A thorough cleaning will get rid of smoke smells from your house. In severe cases, fire damage cleanup may also be required to restore your living space. Here are a few effective tips to help remove the smoke odor from your home.
- Ventilate You Home
All your windows and doors should be open to let fresh air into your house to eliminate the smoke. Open all the doors and windows in your home to let fresh air circulate. This will disperse smoke particles and reduce the intensity.
- Use a Fan: You can push out smoke and let in fresh air by placing fans near the windows. To achieve better results, you can use exhaust fans for the kitchen and bathroom to draw out stale or contaminated air.
- Air Cleaners: Consider an air cleaner with a HEPA filtration system to neutralize odors and trap smoke particles. A purifier with a carbon filter can help absorb the smell.
- Deep Clean Surfaces
Smoke penetrates fabrics, surfaces, and even walls. Therefore, it is necessary to clean all affected areas thoroughly. This helps remove the particles that cause the smell of smoke.
- Windows and Ceilings: Wash windows and ceilings with white vinegar in warm water. This will break down the smoky film. Vinegar removes soot and neutralizes odors. For severe smoke damage, a fire damage cleanup cleaner may be required.
- Carpets/Floors: Smoke can settle into carpets and rugs, so it’s important to shampoo thoroughly. If you still smell smoke, consider renting a vacuum cleaner or hiring carpet cleaning services.
- Furniture Upholstery: Launder all fabric-covered furniture, curtains, cushions, and other items with upholstery cleaning cleaner. If possible, remove all covers and place them in the machine. Sprinkle baking soda on non-washable fabrics to absorb odors. Vacuum after a short time.
- Replace Or Clean HVAC Air Filters
Your HVAC system can easily spread the smell of smoke throughout your home. If you want to ensure that the air in your home is clean and fresh, follow these steps:
- Replace HVAC Filter: Your HVAC system’s air filter should be changed as particles of smoke may accumulate there and spread the smell.
- Professionally Clean Air Ducts: When smoke damage is severe, and you want to thoroughly clean up the fire damage, it’s worth considering having the air ducts professionally cleaned. This will remove any smoke particles trapped inside and improve your indoor air.
- Wash Fabrics & Linens
Wash all fabrics thoroughly to remove smoke odors, such as bed linens, towels, clothes, and bedclothes.
- Vinegar Wash: Add a cup of white vinegar to your washing machine to eliminate the smoke odor. Vinegar, a naturally occurring deodorizer, can help break down particles responsible for odors.
- Repeat if Needed: Fabrics that are heavily affected may need washing more than once. If the smell is persistent, use an odor-neutralizing additive for laundry designed to eliminate tobacco smoke.
- Use Odor Absorbers
You can also use odor absorbers to help eliminate smoke smells.
- Baked Soda: Place a bowl of baking soda on the carpet to absorb odors. Sprinkle baking soda on top and let it sit for several hours before vacuuming.
- Activated Charcoal: This charcoal is highly efficient at absorbing odors. Place bags with activated charcoal on the affected areas.
- Use White Vinegar to Absorb Smoke Odors: Disperse bowls of white vinegar around the home. The vinegar will gradually neutralize your air.
- Painting Walls And Ceilings, If Needed
Repainting walls or ceilings could be the answer if the smell of smoke persists even after thorough cleaning. Smoke can penetrate paints and drywall, leaving a lingering odor. Repainting is a good way to seal the surface and eliminate any smell.
- Use a Primer: Before you paint, apply an odor-blocking primer. This will seal in any remaining traces of smoke. Primers designed for fire damage clean-up can help cover stains and block odors.
- Choose Low VOC Paints: Choose paints with low volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that emit fewer odors.
Conclusion
It is difficult to eliminate the smell of cigarette smoke. But with the proper cleaning products and techniques, you can return your home to a spotless, new state. These tips include everything from using odor absorbers to professional fire damage cleaning services. By addressing and eliminating the source of the smell, you can prevent your home from becoming a smoke-filled environment.
